There is an old sermon illustration I heard again recently that explains why dragons are pictured on some ancient maps. Terrifying experiences were thought to lie in wait at the far edge of the ocean, so cartographers would sometimes paint dragons or demons on their charts to mark the regions no one had ever explored. “Here be dragons” became the shorthand for unknown territory.
But the famous explorer Sir John Franklin refused to be intimidated by the unknown. Franklin was a devoted Christian, a man of faith and prayer. His ability to suffer hardships with patience, courage and joy is well documented.
Legend has it that Franklin took a copy of one of the “Here be dragons” maps, crossed out the ominous warning, and wrote, “Here be God!” He was determined to trust the Lord and continue to explore God’s creation. He sought to embolden his fellow sailors that God had promised never to leave nor forsake them, even in unfamiliar territory.
Wouldn’t that be a reassuring slogan for us to write over our unknown future? Instead of “Here be dragons,” say with confidence, “There be God!” Rather than being terrified of what tomorrow might bring, what if we walked in assurance like the Psalmist who wrote, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging.” (Psalm 46:1-3)
Are you facing an operation that makes you fidgety? “There be God!”
When you calculate your future budget, do you wonder how you will make ends meet? “There be God!”
Have you sent your kids off to college and now you’re worrying how they will cope with the challenges to their faith? “There be God!”
Are you contemplating getting married and having children but you’re somewhat intimidated by stories of disaster? “There be God!”
Do you feel led to accept a new position but you’re apprehensive because it’s so risky? “There be God!”
Facing retirement and wondering if life will still have a purpose? “There be God!”
Do you fear death now that you know it is imminent because of your age or failing health? “There be God!”
Isaiah 46:10 reads, “I make known the end from the beginning, from ancient times, what is still to come. I say, ‘My purpose will stand, and I will do all that I please.'” God sees tomorrow and instructs us as He did Joshua, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9)
There is a banner in the Russell kitchen that says, “Don’t fear tomorrow — God is already there.”
“Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me.” (Psalm 23:4)
